Osaka Withdraws from Australian Open Due to Injury-Related Heartbreak

Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the Australian Open, citing an abdominal injury as the reason for her decision. This unexpected exit has allowed Maddison Inglis to advance to the fourth round of a major tournament for the first time.

Osaka’s Withdrawal Announcement

Osaka was scheduled to compete against Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis on Rod Laver Arena. Hours before the match, she took to Instagram to share her heartbreak over the situation. “I’ve had to make the difficult decision to withdraw to address something my body needs attention for,” she stated. Osaka expressed her disappointment, emphasizing how much the tournament meant to her.

Details of the Injury

In a subsequent media conference, Osaka elaborated on her injury. She revealed it is an issue she has faced before. “I played my last match with some pain and thought I could push through,” she explained. Unfortunately, after warming up for her match, she found that her condition had worsened.

Next Steps for Osaka

Osaka plans to seek medical advice during her recovery. “I definitely have to do more tests,” she noted, acknowledging the physical changes her body underwent after pregnancy. “I have to be really cautious,” she added, indicating the need to consult with healthcare professionals.

Inglis Advances to Fourth Round

Maddison Inglis only learned of Osaka’s withdrawal after the preceding men’s match had commenced. Despite the circumstances, Inglis expressed empathy for Osaka’s situation and wished her a swift recovery. “It doesn’t really feel real,” she commented on her opportunity to advance, reflecting on her journey since qualifying for the tournament.

• Inglis is the first Australian woman to reach the fourth round since Ash Barty’s victory in 2022.
• She won her third-round match via a 10-point tiebreaker, setting the stage for a clash against six-time major champion Iga Świątek.

Osaka’s Tumultuous Tournament

Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion, was seeded 16th this year. Her tournament experience was marked by controversy, including a heated exchange with Sorana Cîrstea following their second-round match. Osaka later apologized for any offense caused during her on-court interview.

Earlier in the tournament, Osaka attracted attention for her unique fashion choices during her first-round match. She stepped onto the court wearing a striking ensemble, which included a white hat, veil, and a ruffled turquoise dress.

The circumstances surrounding Osaka’s withdrawal have left fans and fellow competitors wishing her a speedy recovery. Her decision underscores the importance of prioritizing health in competitive sports.